Public Comment Process for Release of Bellville Land

Yesterday, the City Council approved a public participation process to release a portion of City-owned land in Stikland, Bellville, for a mixed-use development.

FAQ: https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/Media%20Centre%20Assets/Bellville-LDBT-proposal-FAQs.pdf

The Stikland site, being investigated for a potential long-distance bus terminus, including mixed-use development, is marked in red.

The site concerned is a 2,2-hectare portion of Erf 13601 in Stikland for which the City is proposing the development of the long-distance bus terminus (LDBT) together with supportive mixed-use commercial and retail facilities.

‘This is a well-located City asset that has the potential for greater and more efficient use. By identifying it as a potentially appropriate site for a long-distance bus terminus, we’re aiming to improve transport services while unlocking economic value. The proposed facility would allow for more efficient operations, greater passenger handling, and on-site amenities that improve the overall experience for commuters. It’s also the start of what could become a well-used and well-connected hub for the area,’ said Alderman James Vos, the Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth.

‘The property has excellent access to the R300 Freeway via Strand and Bottelary Roads, and is bordered by Stikland Industria to the north, the Access City retail complex to the South, and Stikland Cemetery across La Belle Road to the west, positioning the site strategically for long-distance bus transport.

‘While a comprehensive feasibility study still needs to be undertaken, preliminary investigations indicate potential to develop a future LDBT of approximately 12 000m² and multiple bus holding bays and a supportive mix of retail and commercial development,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Counillor Rob Quintas.

The proposal for the supporting retail and commercial activity enabling a dynamic, mixed-use precinct would respond to market demand while enhancing the functionality and economic sustainability of the area. This step aligns with the City’s Consolidated Land Release Programme, part of the City’s commitment to making better use of public land for the benefit of residents, and to support the priorities of the Integrated Development Plan.

‘We’re pleased to take this step in the land release process. It forms part of our broader efforts to put City-owned properties to work in ways that drive economic activity and respond to real needs. With the potential for mixed-use development alongside the terminus, this site could become a great opportunity to support local businesses, improve transport linkages, and shape the future of the greater Bellville area. The public participation process is an important step before we launch a competitive process to find the right investment partners,’ said Alderman Vos.

Following Council’s approval of the public participation process, the City’s Economic Growth Directorate will now undertake intensive stakeholder engagement to determine a responsible course of action for the disposal of the site. It is envisaged that public participation will take place during the first half of 2026.

This includes engagement with informal vehicle traders currently on the site, who have been allowed to trade on the site temporarily. The City will undertake a stakeholder audit to determine the extent of public informal traders currently operating on the site as per the provisions of the original resolution, and to ensure that everyone is included in the process.